The Enchanted Warriors (Dragon Riders AU)

38🧡

As the sun set over the castle, casting a golden hue across the landscape, the preparations for the evening feast were well underway. The grand dining hall was abuzz with activity, with servants hurrying about, setting the long tables with gleaming silverware and intricate centerpieces. The aroma of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filled the air, promising a sumptuous meal.

Harry and Ella entered the hall, their presence commanding attention. Ella, radiant in her elegant gown, caught the envious eyes of many, including Kasumi. The elder woman, seated at the head of the table, wore a cold expression, her eyes narrowing as she watched Ella.

Without realization to Kasumi and the rest of the attendees, the boys had a secret hidden beneath their clothes. The dragons, having shrunk to the size of small lizards, clung to the boys' necks, concealed by their collars and long hair. The dragons' eyes glinted with curiosity and a touch of mischief as they observed the bustling scene from their hiding spots.

As the first course was about to be served, the boys were still not in the dining hall. The doors opened, and Jin, Namjoon, Hoseok, Jungkook, Taehyung, and Jimin hurried in, slightly out of breath. They quickly took their seats, aware of the disapproving stares they were receiving.

Kasumi's voice cut through the chatter, sharp and commanding. "Welcome, everyone, to this evening's feast," she announced, her gaze lingering on Ella with barely concealed disdain. She then turned her icy stare towards the boys. "I see our young princes have finally decided to grace us with their presence. Punctuality, it seems, is a lost virtue."

The boys exchanged nervous glances, their faces reddening. Jin, seated next to Namjoon, glanced nervously at the head of the table where Kasumi sat. He could feel the slight weight of R.J. nestled against his neck, her warmth a comforting presence despite the tension in the air.

"Apologies, Grandmother," Jin said respectfully, bowing his head. "We were... delayed."

Kasumi's expression did not soften. "Delayed? How irresponsible. Especially on such an important evening. One would think that as future leaders, you would understand the importance of discipline and respect."

Ella met Kasumi's gaze with quiet defiance, her chin held high. Harry, sensing the tension, reached for Ella's hand under the table, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Azriel, though not present in the hall, was never far from Harry's thoughts, his bond with the dragon a source of strength.

As the first course was served, the boys exchanged furtive glances, silently communicating their shared secret. Hoseok shifted slightly in his seat, feeling Jhope's tiny claws grip his collar. The dragon's presence, though hidden, gave him a sense of reassurance amidst the strained atmosphere.

The feast progressed, with conversations flowing around the table. Kasumi, ever watchful, kept a close eye on Ella and her sons. Her contempt for Ella's humble origins was evident in every cold glance and veiled insult.

Hoseok noticed Y/n seated at a distance, gazing at him with a hint of sadness. He wished to share something about J-Hope and pointed to his neck, where the dragon was perched, hoping she would understand. However, the distance between them made it difficult for Y/n to understand.

Y/n leaned forward, attempting to get a better view, while Hoseok bent over slightly to show J-Hope. In the midst of this, J-Hope became curious and poked his neck forward, causing Hoseok to try and gently push him back. In the process, a glass toppled over and shattered on the floor, breaking the brief silence that had enveloped the hall.

Kasumi's voice cut through the chatter, sharp and commanding. "You should discipline your children. They are the future kings, after all. What will happen if this continues? What happened to my son? You should take some notes."